Saturday, May 31, 2014

In the history of the Grand Ole Opry, June has been one of the more active months. Here is a look back at the historical and important events that have taken place at the Grand Ole Opry, or with Opry members, during the month of June. June 17, 1910: Clyde Julian Foley, better known as Red Foley, was born in Blue Lick, Kentucky. Red joined the Grand Ole Opry in April 1946, replacing Roy Acuff as the host of "The Prince Albert Show." He stayed with the Opry until 1954, when he left Nashville and went to Springfield, Missouri as the host of the Ozark Jubilee. Red was on the early inductees into the Country Music Hall of Fame. June 19, 1914: Lester Flatt was born in Overton County, Tennessee. Lester would become famous as part of Bill Monroe's Bluegrass Boys and then later, teaming up with Earl Scruggs to form Flatt & Scruggs. After a successful fun, Earl and Lester split as they had differences over the direction of their music. Earl favored a more progressive sound while Lester wanted to continue to perform traditional bluegrass music. When Lester and Earl separated, most of the Foggy Mountain Boys stayed loyal to Lester and formed the nucleus of his new group, The Nashville Grass. He remained an Opry member until his death in 1979. While at the Opry, he traditionally hosted the Martha White portion.June 17, 1916: David Akeman, better known as Stringbean, was born in Anniville, Kentucky. Stringbean had been a steady performer and musician in country music and at the Opry, but it was his role on Hee Haw that made Stringbean famous to a nationwide audience. Stringbean died in November 1973 when he, along with his wife Estelle, were murdered at his home after returning from an Opry appearance. In an interesting note, when he first started playing the Opry as a solo act, he was known as "String Bean", which over time was shortened to "Stringbean."June 28, 1924: George Morgan was born in Waverly, Tennessee. George spent several years in Ohio and for a period of time he called Barberton, Ohio home. He was a star on the WWVA Wheeling Jamboree and came to Nashville and the Opry in 1948 as the replacement for Eddy Arnold. In an interesting story, when George first came to Nashville, he wasn't sure where the Ryman Auditorium was located. He approached a man standing on the curb on Fifth Avenue and asked him, "Can you tell me where the Grand Ole Opry House is?" The man laughed and said, "It's right behind you." That man was Eddy Arnold! George would remain an Opry member until his death in 1975. On a historical note, George hosted the final Friday night segment at the Ryman Auditorium in March 1974, prior to the move to the new Grand Ole Opry House. After his death, George was elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame. June 19, 1926: DeFord Bailey made is debut on the WSM Barn Dance. DeFord would become a regular performer on the show until he was fired by George D. Hay in 1941. His song, "Pan American Blues" would often be the opening number on the Opry's early broadcasts. After he was fired from the Opry, DeFord remained bitter toward WSM and the Opry and he rejected many invitations to return. Finally on February 23, 1974, he returned to the Opry for their annual "Old-Timer's Night." Roy Acuff and Minnie Pearl introduced him and he received a great ovation. He would return several times to the Opry after that and he made his final appearance in April 1982, several months before his death on July 2, 1982. DeFord is a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame. June 2, 1927: Former Opry member Carl Butler was born in Knoxville, Tennessee. Along with his wife Pearl, he had one of the biggest hits in country music history with "Don't Let Me Cross Over." Carl and Pearl were members of the Opry for several years and were instrumental in Dolly Parton's career. Dolly never forgot the kindness that Carl and Pearl showed her and in their later years when they had some financial difficulties, she reportedly helped them out, allowing them to keep their home and ranch. Carl passed away in September 1992. June 23, 1929: Valerie June Carter was born in Maces Spring, Virginia. She came to the Grand Ole Opry with her mother Maybelle and sisters Helen and Anita, appearing with them and as a solo comedian. After coming to the Opry, she married fellow Opry member Carl Smith and they are the parents of Carlene Carter. While June was not much of a singer, she did have talent as a comedian. She often teamed with Rod Brasfield and Jimmy Dickens. June 12, 1936: Dr. Humphrey Bate of the Possom Hunters died at the age of 61. After Uncle Jimmy Thompson, Dr. Bate is considered the 2nd original member of what is now the Grand Ole Opry. In fact, many historians feel that he may actually have been the first rural performer featured on WSM. He was an important part of the early history of the Opry and his contributions are often overlooked today. June 13, 1936: Because of the size of the crowds, the Opry moves to the Dixie Tabernacle, located on Fatherland Street in East Nashville. The Tabernacle, while sounding impressive, was actually a very primitive facility with wooden benches, sawdust floors, and no dressing rooms. It was basically an old barn that you had to open the sides in the summer to keep the air flowing through. But it did seat 3,500 and contributed to the growth of the Opry. June 5, 1937: Pee Wee King and his Golden West Cowboys join the Opry. Pee Wee was one of the first professional entertainers to join the show and he helped to bring a more professional and polished look to the show. Pee Wee had numerous disagreements with Opry founder George D. Hay, who felt that Pee Wee's group was not country enough and playing instruments that had no business being played on the Opry. Pee Wee would stay for a number of years before leaving the Opry and moving to Louisville, Kentucky to work in television, something that he tried to get WSM interested in. He would become famous for the "Tennessee Waltz" and would be one of the early inductees into the Country Music Hall of Fame. After leaving the Opry, Pee Wee would continue to make guest appearances, most often on the annual reunion shows. His autobiography, "Hell-Bent for Music" is an excellent book that I highly recommend. June 25, 1940: Republic Pictures releases the movie "Grand Ole Opry" which featured George D. Hay, Roy Acuff and his group, along with Uncle Dave Macon. It was a basic movie for the times, as the Opry stars helped a group of Ozark residents try to take back state government from a group of crooks. While the movie was not academy award material, it offers a great look at an early Roy Acuff. June 5, 1943: The Opry moves to the Ryman Auditorium where it would stay until March 1974. Over time, the Ryman would acquire the nickname "Mother Church of Country Music" and even today, many consider it the true home of the Opry and it is where the Opry enjoyed its greatest growth. Since 1999, the Opry has returned to the Ryman each winter. June 6, 1944: Grant Turner started work at WSM as an announcer. Of course, this was "D-Day." Over time, Grant would become known as the voice of the Opry and is probably the most famous announcer that the Opry has ever had. He would remain at the Opry until his death in October 1991. In 1981 he was elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame. June 17, 1944: The Poe Sisters, Ruth and Nelle, joined the Grand Ole Opry. Their idols were the Delmore Brothers and in fact, George D. Hay would often refer to these sisters as the "female Delmore Brothers." The Poe Sisters performed regionally in the Northeast before coming to Nashville. Their time at the Opry was very short as after Ruth married in 1945, Nelle left the Opry and moved back to the Northeast. After being gone for a couple of months, Nelle returned to Nashville and they were back on the Opry. However, in August 1946, they left the Opry for good and soon after, they were out of the music business. An interesting fact is that during the time they were on the Opry, Ruth played a mandolin that she borrowed from Bill Monroe. Upon leaving the Opry, she returned the instrument to Bill. June 17, 1944: On the same night that the Poe Sisters become Opry members, Rod Brasfield makes his Opry debut. June 11, 1949: Hank Williams makes his Grand Ole Opry debut. The performance that night is still talked about today, mostly by Jimmy Dickens who is one of the few still alive that witnessed that night. Hank sang "Lovesick Blues" and was called back for 6 encores. Jimmy has said many times that Hank's performance that night was the greatest Opry appearance he has ever seen. June 12, 1954: Ferlin Husky becomes a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Ferlin would remain an Opry member until December 1964 when he was fired for failing to meet the required number of annual appearances. He would return to guest on the show. June 1, 1957: The Everly Brothers became members of the Grand Ole Opry. It was part of an effort by Opry management to attract a younger audience as the Opry attendance was dropping like a rock with the start of rock and roll music. In fact, there were many who wondered if the Opry would survive or not. The Everly Brothers were destined for bigger and better things and their stay at the Opry was very short. In 2001, they were elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame. June 13, 1959: Roy Drusky joined the Opry. Roy came to the Opry from Atlanta and would remain at the Opry until his death in September 2004. In my opinion, Roy had one of the smoothest voices in country music and he did an outstanding job each and every time he did a ballad number. June 27, 1959: Grand Ole Opry member Loretta Lynn Morgan, known professionally as Lorrie Morgan, was born. June 14, 1961: Patsy Cline was seriously injured in an automobile accident in Nashville. It would take her 8 months to recover from the accident, which left a scar on her forehead. Because of that scar, Patsy would wear a wig just about every time she would perform. June 8, 1964: Altone Delmore died at the age of 55 in Huntsville, Alabama. The Delmore Brothers joined the Grand Ole Opry in 1933 and their influence is still felt today. The Delmore's left the Opry after a dispute with George D. Hay. In 2001, they were elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame. June 12, 1965: Tex Ritter became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. When Tex joined, he was at the tail end of his great western movie career and many questioned why he would want to join the Opry and why the Opry would have him. But Tex surprised everyone by becoming one of the Opry's most loyal and popular members. He also co-hosted a late night radio program on WSM with Ralph Emery. Tex, who was elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1964, was also one of the early leaders and founding members of the Country Music Association. Tex passed away on January 2, 1974. June 13, 1965: Connie Smith and Bob Luman became members of the Grand Ole Opry. This will be Connie's 49th year as an Opry member, although she did leave the show for a short period of time in the late 1960s, rejoining the show in 1971. Connie, a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame, is considered one of the top female voices in the history of country music. As far as the night she joined, "I joined the same night as Bob Luman. And I had totally no control over my voice at all. I was scared to death; it just meant too much to me. I had heard about people's knees knocking and I thought it was a fake. But mine actually did and while I was out there singing. I was that shook. And when I came off the stage, I busted out crying. It was just my dreams come true." Bob Luman was someone who was as close to a rock and roll performer as anyone else at the Opry. He was a rockabilly singer who came to the Opry from the Louisiana Hayride. His big hit that got his career going was "Let's Think About Living." Bob would remain an Opry member until he passed away in December 1978. What is interesting about Connie's rememberance of that night she and Bob joined the Opry together, is that June 13, 1965 was actually a Sunday. In fact, on another list that I have, Connie's first Opry performance was on September 18, 1965. Again, as with much of the history of the Grand Ole Opry, facts are sometimes hard to come by, but as far as the Opry is concerned, June 13 is the date. June 20, 1965: Ira Louvin, the older brother of Charlie Louvin, was killed in a car accident. One of the greatest duets in the history of country music, the Louvin Brothers were elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2001, many years after they should have been elected. Ira and Charlie had broken up prior to the accident, so while Charlie was a solo member of the Opry at the time of Ira's death, Ira was no longer an Opry member. June 1, 1967: Stu Phillips becomes a member of the Opry. Stu, who is celebrating his 47th year as an Opry member, is from Canada, joining Hank Snow and Terri Clark as the only Opry members from north of the border. While Stu never had that career hit record, he would always remain a loyal member of the Opry and when his health permits, still performs on the show. June 30, 1970: Ground was broken for Opryland. Roy Acuff and Brother Oswald handled the ground breaking and it would take several years for the park to be completed. At the time, Roy lived across the Cumberland River from the construction site, and was able to watch the park and the Opry House be built. June 28, 1974: Paul McCartney is introduced on the stage of the Opry by Roy Acuff. The former Beatle did not perform and was in Nashville as part of an extended vacation. June 28, 1975: Opry member George Morgan makes his final appearance at the Opry, which was also his 51st birthday. Also on the Opry that night as a guest was his daughter Lorrie and they did a duet, "Smile For Me."June 17, 1978: Marty Robbins drove his new custom-made Panther Deville automobile onto the stage of the Opry. In a moment of good humor, Roy Acuff found a security guard who gave Marty a parking ticket. June 19, 1980: Boxcar Willie makes his debut on the Opry.June 19, 1982: Riders In The Sky joined the Grand Ole Opry. This will be their 32nd year as Opry members and they remain the only cast members to specialize in western music. Besides being a member of the Riders, Doug Green is also a member of The Time Jumpers. June 9, 1984: Lorrie Morgan joined the cast of the Grand Ole Opry. This will be her 30th year as an Opry member and I am sure the Opry will have a special night for her. Lorrie first appeared on the Opry at the age of 13, when her father, George Morgan, introduced her and she sang, "Paper Roses." June 18, 1984: Former Grand Ole Opry member Paul Howard passed away in Little Rock, Arkansas. He was 75. He joined the Opry in 1942 and performed on the Opry with his group, the Arkansas Cotton Pickers. Grady Martin and Hank Garland were members of his band, which specialized in Western music. Paul stayed with the Opry through the 1940s and would return for the annual reunion shows. June 20, 1986: Whitey Ford, the Duke of Paducah, died at the age of 85. Whitey joined the Opry in 1942 and would remain an Opry member until 1959. Like others, he would return to the Opry and make numerous guest appearances. While at the Opry he, along with Minnie Pearl, were the featured comedians on the "Prince Albert Show" portion. However, he had a contract dispute with the sponsor and was taken off that portion of the Opry and replaced by Rod Brasfield. In October 1986, he was elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame. June 10, 1988: Herman Crook died in a Nashville hospital at the age of 89. Herman was a harmonica player and a part of the Crook Brothers, the last true string band to be featured on the Opry. Herman was also the last living link to the start of the Opry, coming to the show in 1926. Over the years, as the various string bands were merged, the Crook Brothers would have various members, but Herman was always there. For the majority of their final years on the Opry, the Crook Brothers would back up the square dancers, generally appearing on Roy Acuff's segment during the first show and the 10:45 segment during the 2nd show. After Herman's death, the Crook Brothers name was no longer used and the string band, led by Earl White, was just referred to as the Opry Square Dance Band. Earl is still on the Opry, the last one left from Herman's group. June 10, 1988: Ricky Van Shelton joins the Grand Ole Opry. Now retired, this will be his 26th year as an Opry member. June 11, 1988: The day after Ricky joined the Opry, Patty Loveless became a member of the cast. At one time, Patty was part of the Wilburn Brother's television show and part of Porter Wagoner's outfit. Many times she would talk about how much Porter influenced her career and on the night she joined, it was Porter who inducted her. I honestly feel that Patty has one of the sweetest voices in country music and I wished she would do the Opry more often. June 24, 1989: Garth Brooks makes his first appearance at the Opry. Garth would guest several more times before becoming a member the following year. June 2, 1990: Mike Snider becomes a member of the Opry. For Mike, this will be his 24th year as an Opry member, and up until this year, was a very popular comedian and string band leader on the show. But as I write this, he has not appeared on the Opry at all in 2014. June 7, 1991: Alan Jackson joins the Opry. This will be his 23rd year as an Opry member. To say that Alan has been a disappointment as a member would be an understatement. He was a part of the group that joined the Opry when nothing was asked from these artists in return, and in Alan's case, we get 1 or 2 Opry appearances a year. It's too bad as he always receives a great reaction each time he does the Opry. June 15, 1991: Minnie Pearl makes her last appearance associated with the Opry. She performed at an Opry sponsored show in Joliet, Illinois. 2 days later, she suffered a serious stroke that would end her performing days. June 3, 1994: The Ryman Auditorium reopens for the first time since the building was renovated as Garrison Keillor's Prairie Home Companion radio show was broadcast live from the auditorium. After the Opry left in 1974, the building was left empty until Gaylord Entertainment made the decision to put life back in the facility. It is now considered one of Nashville's treasures. June 3, 1994: Former Opry member Wally Fowler passed away at the age of 77. Wally came to Nashville in 1948 with his Oak Ridge Quartet. He was a part of the Opry until 1950. The Oak Ridge Quartet was a regular part of the "Prince Albert Show." Over time, the Oak Ridge Quartet would become the Oak Ridge Boys, and the focus of the music would shift from gospel to country. June 4, 1994: Former Opry member Zeke Clements died at the age of 82. Zeke first came to the Opry in the 1930s with the Bronco Busters, led by Texas Ruby. June 17, 1994: Sarah Wilson, of Sarie and Sallie, died at the age of 97. Sarie and Sallie were Opry members from 1934-1939. Edna Wilson and her sister Margaret Waters were their real names. June 10, 2000: The Grand Ole Opry introduced a new Opry backdrop. The new state of the art lighting replaced the old red barn that in various forms, had been the backdrop since the Opry House opened in 1974. It was reported at the time that the old backdrop was donated to the Country Music Hall of Fame, but as of this date, is not on display at the Hall. June 17, 2000: The Opry begins streaming it shows live on the internet, giving those around the world the opportunity to listen to the Opry. For many, it was their first change to listen without static. June 14, 2003: While Trace Adkins was performing on the Opry, Jimmy Dickens came out with a ladder and asked Trace if he would like to become the Opry's newest member. Of course, Trace said yes. June 12, 2004: Terri Clark joins the Opry. This will be her 10th year as an Opry member.June 9, 2007: Mel Tillis is introduced by his daughter Pam as the Opry's newest member. This will be his 7th year as an Opry member, although he had been a part of the Opry previously as a member of Porter Wagoner's Wagonmasters. Back during that time period, there is the belief that Mel was asked to become an Opry member, accepted, and then backed out. He even made it in one of the Opry's History Picture books.June 6, 2008: The 4 Guys make a guest appearance on the Opry, which was their first appearance since being fired from the cast eight years earlier. June 23, 2009: Montgomery Gentry joins the cast of the Opry. This will be their 5th year as an Opry member. They were brought to the show on the recommendation of Charlie Daniels, who had joined the Opry the previous year.June 15, 2013: Opry member Patty Loveless is honored on her 25th anniversary as an Opry member. Vince Gill was the host and together they closed the night with "Go Rest High On That Mountain."A very busy month at the Opry.

Wednesday, May 28, 2014

Before offering the line-ups for the shows this weekend, I just wanted again to comment on Stonewall Jackson's appearance on last week's Friday Night Opry. As I stated previously in the comments from last week, Stonewall sounded pretty good in his first Opry appearance of the year. He did his hit, "That's Why I'm Walkin'" and the audience gave him a very nice reception. Among the comments he made were, "I love the Grand Ole Opry", and at the conclusion of his song he thanked "Mr. Fisher" for inviting him. It was that last comment that I thought was a little strange and it just made me wonder a bit. I know some of the veterans, particuarly Ray Pillow, Stu Phillips and Stonewall, rarely do the Opry. Some is by choice as all 3 have had a few medical issues. But it also made me wonder if Stonewall had been called previously to do the Opry over the past several months and he has declined, which resulted in Pete Fisher calling him personally to ask him to appear. I know that sounds a little out there, but that seemed to be the only logical explanation I could come up with for Stonewall to say that. Perhaps I am reading too much into it, but I hope we have not seen the last of Stonewall and that he comes back soon. As far as the Opry, the next couple of weeks will be pretty busy with the CMA Music Festival getting underway and a lot of the bigger acts in town and doing the Opry. For this weekend, it's not so much the big names, but there is some good talent at the Opry this weekend, particuarly on Friday Night. The Friday Night Opry will feature Opry members Marty Stuart and Ralph Stanley, along with Ricky Skaggs who is appearing both nights. Guest artists include comedian Henry Cho, Radney Foster and among my favorites, Kathy Mattea. The only name I see on Friday night that I question is Mary Gauthier. I was at the Opry years ago when she made her Opry debut and in my opinion, she was terrible. And I was not the only one to have that opinion. Hopefully she is better this time around. In addition to Ricky Skagg's, Saturday's Grand Ole Opry will feature a number of guest artists including frequent Opry guests Sarah Darling and Mark Wills. Deana Carter gets another guest appearance and she has impressed. As far as newcomers this weekend, we have Morgan Evans from Australia making his Opry debut on Saturday, along with Crowder, a Christian act. Friday May 307:00: Riders In The Sky (host); Kathy Mattea; Jimmy C Newman; Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press7:30: John Conlee (host); Henry Cho; Ralph StanleyIntermission8:15: Ricky Skaggs (host); Jean Shepard; Jim Ed Brown; Radney Foster8:45: Marty Stuart (host); Connie Smith; Mary GautheirSaturday May 317:00: John Conlee (host); Sarah Darling7:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Morgan Evans; Mark WillsIntermission8:15: Bill Anderson (host); Jesse McReynolds; Deana Carter; Opry Square Dancers8:45: Ricky Skaggs (host); The Whites; CrowderThat comes out to 14 artists on Friday night, which might be close to a modern day record!!, and 11 on Saturday night. 10 Opry members on Friday and 6 on Saturday with a slot left open for Jimmy Dickens. The Ernest Tubb Midnight Jamboree will be hosted by Joanne Cash. Now looking back, here is the Opry line-up from 5 years ago this weekend, May 29 & 30, 2009:Friday May 29, 20097:00: Mike Snider (host); Jim Ed Brown; Jean Shepard; Sunny Sweeney7:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); The Whites; Jimmy C Newman; Rebecca Lynn Howard8:00: Marty Stuart (host); Connie Smith; The Quebe Sisters Band8:30: Bill Anderson (host); Charlie Nagatani; Riders In The SkySaturday May 30, 20091st show7:00: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jim Ed Brown; Jeannie Seely; Mike Snider7:30: Marty Stuart (host); Jimmy C Newman; Riders In The Sky; Connie Smith8:00: Bill Anderson (host); Jean Shepard; Joe Diffie; Opry Square Dancers8:30: Vince Gill (host); Amy Grant; John McEuen; Tim O'Brien; Steve Martin; Brad Paisley2nd show9:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Mel McDaniel; George Hamilton IV; The Whites10:00: Marty Stuart (host); Jack Greene; Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Connie Smith10:30: Bill Anderson (host); Jeannie Seely; Joe Diffie; Opry Square Dancers11:00: Vince Gill (host); Amy Grant; John McEuen; Tim O'Brien; Steve MartinAnd here is the line-up from 10 years ago, May 28 & 29, 2004: Friday May 28, 20047:30: Porter Wagoner (host); Mel McDaniel; Joni Harms8:00: Steve Wariner (host); Osborne Brothers; Lane Turner8:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); Stonewall Jackson; Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Daryle Singletary9:00: Bill Anderson (host); Jean Shepard; Rhonda Vincent9:30: Mike Snider (host); Jan Howard; Billy Walker; John BerrySaturday May 29, 20041st show6:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); Mel McDaniel; Julie Roberts7:00: Jean Shepard (host); Jack Greene; Joni Harms7:30: George Hamilton IV (host); Jimmy C Newman; Darryl Worley8:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Carl Hurley; Joe Nichols; Opry Square Dancers8:30: Bill Anderson (host); Lane Turner; George Jones2nd show9:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); Mel McDaniel; George Jones10:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Jimmy C Newman; Billy Walker; Julie Roberts10:30: Jean Shepard (host); Carl Hurley; Darryl Worley; Opry Square Dancers11:00: Bill Anderson (host); Joni Harms; Lane Turner11:30: George Hamilton IV (host); Jack Greene; Joe NicholsWith the exception of George Jones, this would be one of the few weeks that I would take the 2009 show over the 2004 Opry. For this week's look back in the archives, it was on Saturday June 2, 1990, that Mike Snider became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. William Michael Snider has taken the venerable country traditions of down-home humor and old-time banjo playing and carried them lovingly into contemporary times. He was one of the first stars created by "The Nashville Network" via guest spots on Ralph Emery's Nashville Now (more than a hundred appearances) and the syndicated Hee Haw series (he joined the cast in 1987). With his slow-drawling West Tennessee accent, he left an initial impression of a bashful and simple country boy, but he quickly proved to be a shrewd and effective entertainer, mixing old-time tunes with humorous stores about his wife, "Sweetie" (Sabrina). He often generated double the fan mail of famous guests. At sixteen, Snider received his first banjo. After winning the Mid-South Banjo Championship, he became National Bluegrass Banjo Champion at twenty-three. On January 21, 1984, Snider made his first appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. A prouder moment came on June 2, 1990, when he was officially welcomed as a cast member by his comedy idol, Minnie Pearl. Snider has since added back-up musicians to his act and witty one-liners. In 1989 he hosted TNN's "Fairs & Festivals" series and is in demand for banquets and conventions. He was also a familiar face at the Opryland park. Snider's albums, "Puttin' on the Dog" and "Mike Snider Live at the Opry," are not available in music stores but instead at his personal appearances. Thanks to TV appearances, Snider says, the releases have sold respectably: "Sometimes you sell a few and sometimes you don't."(Walt Trott-The Encyclopedia of Country Music)Mike has always been a very loyal member of the Opry, but for some unknown reason, he has not appeared on the show at all in 2014. I have asked, as have others, and there seems to be no real explanation for Mike avoiding the Opry. There is nothing being said that he is mad at anyone, so let's just hope he is taking a break. In honor of Mike Snider's 24th anniversary as a member of the Grand Ole Opry, here is the running order of the show from Saturday June 2, 1990, the night Mike Snider became a member. 1st show6:30: BonanzaJimmy Dickens (host): (?)Jeanne Pruett: (?)6:45: Rudy's4 Guys (host): (?)Skeeter Davis: (?)7:00: Shoney'sJim Ed Brown (host): (?)Jan Howard: (?)Billy Walker: (?)Ray Pillow: (?)Charlie Louvin: (?)7:30: Standard CandyGrandpa Jones (host): Are You From DixieHolly Dunn: Don't Worry/You Really Had Me GoingMinnie Pearl Mike Snider: Alabama Jubilee/Foggy Mountain BreakdownGrandpa Jones: Eight More Miles to Louisville8:00: Martha WhiteRoy Acuff (host): Wabash CannonballConnie Smith: Did We Have to Come This Far to Say Goodbye/Your Cheatin' HeartGeorge Hamilton IV: Till I Can Gain Control Again/AbileneOpry Square Dance Band: Patti on the TurnpikeRoy Acuff: I'll Fly Away8:30: Music Valley MerchantsHank Snow (host): Gonna Find Me A BluebirdJean Shepard: I'll Sail My Ship AloneRoy Drusky: The Last FarewellStu Phillips: The Great El TigroeJeannie Seely: One Step Away From Coming HomeHank Snow: I'm Glad I Got to See You Once Again2nd show9:30: Dollar GeneralJim Ed Brown (host): Southern LovingHolly Dunn: Don't WorryBilly Walker: Tennessee WaltzBill Carlisle: Same Old Tale That the Crow Told MeDottie West: Here Comes My BabyJim Ed Brown: A Child Is Born10:00: Little DebbieJimmy Dickens (host): Me and My Big Loud MouthSkeeter Davis: If I Don't Have YouJimmy Dickens: What Will I Do Then10:15: SunbeamRoy Acuff (host): Low and Lonely4 Guys: Catfish John/How Married Are You Mary AnnRoy Acuff: I Saw the Light10:30: Pet MilkGrandpa Jones (host): Darby's RamMike Snider: Bells of St. Mary'sGrandpa Jones: Chicken, Chicken10:45: B.C. PowderStonewall Jackson (host): Don't Be AngryJean Shepard: Love's Gonna Live HereOpry Square Dance Band: Sugar in the GoardStonewall Jackson: Muddy Water11:00: Coca-Cola Hank Snow (host): Forever & 1; Forever & 2Connie Smith: Once A DayCharlie Louvin: The Precious JewelRoy Drusky: AlwaysVic Willis Trio: ColoradoHank Snow: Ninety Miles An Hour11:30: CreametteGeorge Hamilton IV (host): Break My MindStu Phillips: I Shouldn't Have Stayed So LongJeannie Seely: One Bad Old MemoryJohnny Russell: No One Will Ever KnowGeorge Hamilton IV: Forever Young*It appears that Dottie West might also have done the first show, but I neglected to write what segment she might have been on.Congratulations to Mike Snider on 24 years of Opry membership.

Wednesday, May 21, 2014

Grand Ole Opry and holiday weekends sometimes do not go together as many of the artists are out on the road doing dates, but for this Memorial Day weekend, the Opry has come up with a couple of shows that, while not necessarily outstanding, are pretty decent. There are a couple of names that have caught my eye on the schedule and one of them is scheduled for the Friday Night Opry. Opry member Stonewall Jackson is scheduled for his first appearance this year. (one friend of mine wrote me an email and asked if Pete Fisher was on vacation this weekend, and if that was why Stonewall was doing the Opry?). Joining Stonewall on Friday night will be the great guitarist Doyle Dykes. He has played the Opry for many years and usually gets a couple of slots a year. Also scheduled is Elizabeth Cook and from "Nashville" Charles Esten. Saturday's Grand Ole Opry features another artist who I personally love and wish that we would see more of, and that is Suzy Bogguss. She has released a new CD, "Lucky", which features songs by Merle Haggard. I own it and it is fantastic. Joining Suzy, who will also be signing copies of her CD in the Opry gift shop, will be Joe Mullins & The Radio Ramblers, who have made several recent appearances, along with Keni Thomas and Jason Crabb, who is also scheduled on Friday night. And, as has been the case for the past several weeks, there is a slot available on Saturday night for Jimmy Dickens, which seems to the be scheduling pattern. Friday May 237:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Greg Bates; Jesse McReynolds7:30: George Hamilton IV (host); Elizabeth Cook; Doyle DykesIntermission8:15: The Whites (host); Stonewall Jackson; Johnny Counterfit; Jason Crabb8:45: Connie Smith (host); Charles EstenSaturday May 247:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Keni Thomas7:30: John Conlee (host); Jan Howard; Joe Mullins & His Radio RamblersIntermission8:15: The Whites (host); Jimmy C Newman; Suzy Bogguss; Opry Square Dancers8:45: Connie Smith (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Jason CrabbThat comes out to 6 Opry members on Friday night and 7 on Saturday. And still no Mike Snider, which remains a mystery. I get more questions about Mike then any other Opry member. It is like he has disappeared. This is an Opry member who averaged almost 100 appearances per year and has yet to be on the Opry in 2014. Strange. Looking back 5 years ago this weekend, here was the Grand Ole Opry line-up for the weekend of May 22 & 23, 2009:Friday May 227:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Mike Snider; Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Caitlin & Will7:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Connie Smith; Rhonda Vincent8:00: Bill Anderson (host); Jean Shepard; Tracy Byrd8:30: Ricky Skaggs (host); Stonewall Jackson; Jack Greene; The WhitesSaturday May 237:00: Jimmy Dickens (host); Connie Smith; Dale Watson7:30: Mike Snider (host); Jimmy C Newman; Jean Shepard; Emily West8:00: Ricky Skaggs (host); Riders In The Sky; The Whites; Opry Square Dancers8:30: Bill Anderson (host); Jan Howard; Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Hal KetchumAnd now, here is the line-ups from 10 years ago, the weekend of May 21 & 22, 2004:Friday May 217:30: Porter Wagoner (host); Mel McDaniel; Gene Watson8:00: Mike Snider (host); Stu Phillips; Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Jedd Hughes8:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Osborne Brothers; Rebecca Lynn Howard; 9:00: Bill Anderson (host); Morgane Hayes; Charlie Louvin; Pinmonkey9:30: Charlie Walker (host); Connie Smith; Mandy BarnettSaturday May 221st show6:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Mel McDaniel; Mountain Heart7:00: Mike Snider (host); Jack Greene; Rachel Proctor; Osborne Brothers; Suzy Bogguss8:00: Charlie Walker (host); Jan Howard; Jedd Hughes; Opry Square Dancers8:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Taylor Ware; Billy Walker; Rebecca Lynn Howard2nd show9:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Mel McDaniel; Mountain Heart10:00: Mike Snider (host); Osborne Brothers; Suzy Bogguss; Billy Walker; Rachel Proctor; Opry Square Dancers11:00: Riders In The Sky (host); Taylor Ware; Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Rebecca Lynn Howard11:30: Ray Pillow (host); Jedd Hughes; Jack GreeneAnd finally, here is the running order from Saturday May 25, 1991, 23 years ago this weekend:1st show6:30: Porter Wagoner (host): Ol' SlewfootDanny Davis: My Shoes Keep Walking Back to YouPorter Wagoner: You Gotta Have A License/Forty Miles from Poplar Bluff6:45: Hall of FameJim Ed Brown (host): Everyday PeopleJan Howard: Heartaches by the NumberJim Ed Brown: Four Walls7:00: Shoney'sJimmy C Newman (host): La Cajun BandStu Phillips: (?)Jean Shepard: Home in San Antone/Time Changes Everything/Deep Water/Roly PolyBill Carlisle: Hand Me Down My Walking CaneErnie Ashworth: Talk Back Trembling LipsJimmy C Newman: Colinda/Cajun Stripper7:30: Standard CandyBill Monroe (host): Uncle PenCharlie Walker: There's A Star Spangled Banner Waving SomewhereTeddy Wilburn: I've Loved You All Over the WorldMargo & Holly Smith: Just the Beginnings/Chime BellsBill Monroe: Cryin' Holy Unto the Lord/Blue Moon of Kentucky8:00: Martha WhiteRoy Acuff (host): Wabash Cannonball4 Guys: I'm Bound for Higher Ground/How Married Are You, Mary AnnRoy Drusky: It's My Way of Loving You/One Day at a TimeOpry Square Dance Band/Stoney Mountain Cloggers: Rachel8:30: Pops RiteJimmy Dickens (host): Family ReunionSkeeter Davis: My Last Date With You/Silver Threads and Golden Needles/The End of the WorldRay Pillow: Too Many MemoriesCharlie Louvin: Will You Visit Me on SundaysThe Whites: Doing It By the BookJimmy Dickens: I Love Lucy Brown2nd show9:30: Dollar GeneralPorter Wagoner (host): Sugarfoot RagJean Shepard: Let's All Go Down to the River/Will the Circle Be Unbroken/I'll Fly Away/I Saw the LightStonewall Jackson: Ol' Chunk of CoalStu Phillips: Here She Comes AgainBill Carlisle: Rusty Old HaloPorter Wagoner: Green, Green Grass of Home/Country Music Has Gone to Town10:00: Little DebbieJim Ed Brown (host): Pop A TopJan Howard: Wind Beneath My WingsJim Ed Brown: The Old Lamplighter10:15: SunbeamRoy Acuff (host): Just A FriendOswald: Willy, Don't You Ramble No MoreRoy Acuff: The Things I Might Have Been10:30: Pet MilkBill Monroe (host): The Old Tennessee RiverJimmy C Newman; Pistol Packin' MamaBill Monroe: Sweetheart, You Done Me Wrong10:45: B.C. PowderCharlie Walker (host): A Way to Free MyselfThe Whites: What About YouOpry Square Dance Band/Stoney Mountain Cloggers: Sugar in the GoardCharlie Walker: Take Me Back to Tulsa11:00: Coca-ColaJimmy Dickens (host): Be and My Big Loud MouthTeddy Wilburn: Somebody's Back in TownRoy Drusky: Go Bring My Children HomeJustin Tubb: As Long As There's A SundayRay Pillow: If I Didn't Have You In My WorldJimmy Dickens: Life Turned Her That Way11:30: Creamette4 Guys (host): We're Only Here For A Little WhileCharlie Louvin: The Precious Jewel/Something to Brag AboutSkeeter Davis: The End of the World/Joy, Joy, Joy, Joy, Down in My Heart4 Guys: If I Didn't Care/Tied UpAs an additional note, Wilma Lee Cooper was scheduled for Porter's segment during the first show but cancelled. Enjoy the Opry this weekend and I hope everyone has a safe Memorial Day.

Tuesday, May 6, 2014

The Grand Ole Opry gets a jump on Mother's Day weekend and has already posted the line-ups for the 3 shows this weekend. Yes, that is right as Saturday night will feature 2 shows with the main attraction being Opry member Carrie Underwood. These will be Carrie's first Opry appearances of the year and they come on the weekend of her 6th year as an Opry member as she joined the Opry on May 10, 2008. In addition to Carrie, Saturday's Grand Ole Opry will feature Opry member Larry Gatlin, along with a return appearance by Fiddlin' Carson Peters, who went over well during his Opry debut several weeks back. Also guesting on Saturday will be Francesca Battistelli. Appearing both nights this weekend will be Opry member Charlie Daniels, who will be joined on Friday night by Opry member Joe Diffie. And not to forget the "Nashville" connection as Chris Carmack will be guesting, along with The Henningsens. Friday May 97:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Greg Bates; Jesse McReynolds7:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); Jimmy C Newman; Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; The HenningsensIntermission8:15: Connie Smith (host); Chris Carmack; Joe Diffie8:45: Riders In The Sky (host); Charlie Daniels BandSaturday May 101st show7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Francesca Battistelli7:30: Larry Gatlin (host); Jim Ed Brown; Fiddlin' Carson Peters Band8:00: Connie Smith (host); Charlie Daniels Band; Opry Square Dancers8:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Carrie Underwood2nd show9:30: Jeannie Seely (host); The Whites; Francesca Battistelli10:00: Larry Gatlin (host); Fiddlin' Carson Peters Band10:30: Connie Smith (host); Charlie Daniels Band; Opry Square Dancers11:00: Riders In The Sky (host); Carrie UnderwoodOnly 9 artists on each show on Saturday night, but I am assuming they are saving the open spot during the first show's segment for Jimmy Dickens. Continuing with the new feature, here is the Grand Ole Opry line-up from 5 years ago this weekend, May 8 & 9, 2009. This was the night that the Opry added an extra segment just for Reba McEntire, and she did 3 songs. It was also Reba's last Opry appearance as she has not appeared since. On another note, I thought that this idea that the Opry had was a good one. You still had the traditional Opry, with an extra segment that featured just one artist. To the best of my knowledge, the Opry has not done this since. Friday May 8, 20097:00: Riders In The Sky (host); Jimmy C Newman; Kate & Kacey7:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press8:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Daryle Singletary; Mountain Heart8:30: Mike Snider (host); Jean Shepard; Aaron TippinSaturday May 9, 20097:00: Jim Ed Brown (host); Helen Cornelius; Jimmy C Newman; James Otto7:30: Jean Shepard (host); Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Ernie Haase & Signature Sound8:00: Mike Snider (host); Stonewall Jackson; Darryl Worley; Opry Square Dancers8:30: Hal Ketchum (host); Jan Howard; Jack Greene9:00: Reba McEntireNow here is the line-up from 10 years ago, the weekend of May 7 & 8, 2004:Friday May 7, 20047:30: Porter Wagoner (host); Connie Smith; George Hamilton IV; Jimmy Wayne8:00: Pam Tillis (host); Stonewall Jackson; Jean Shepard; Scotty Emerick8:30: Mike Snider (host); Jim Ed Brown; Rushlow9:00: Bill Anderson (host); Jack Greene; Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Craig Morgan9:30: Diamond Rio (host); Rodney Atkins; Osborne BrothersSaturday May 8, 20041st show6:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Connie Smith; Rushlow7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); George Hamilton IV; Jimmy C Newman; Craig Morgan7:30: Hal Ketchum (host); Dale Ann Bradley & Coon Creek; Jean Shepard8:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Billy Grammer; Billy Walker; Scotty Emerick; Opry Square Dancers8:30: Mike Snider (host); Jim Ed Brown; Pam Tillis2nd show9:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Connie Smith; Rushlow10:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Jimmy C Newman; Osborne Brothers; Craig Morgan10:30: Hal Ketchum (host); Billy Grammer; Jean Shepard; Dale Ann Bradley & Coon Creek; Opry Square Dancers11:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Calvin Gilmore; Billy Walker; Pam Tillis11:30: Mike Snider (host); Ray Pillow; Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Scotty EmerickFinally, it was Saturday May 11, 1996 that Steve Wariner became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. This will be his 18th year as an Opry member. Steve had first come to the Opry many years before joining as a member of Dottie West's band. Since joining the Opry, Steve has done a fairly good job at making regular Opry appearances and he is a crowd favorite. I have had the pleasure of meeting Steve and he is about the nicest man you could ever meet. Here is the running order from Saturday May 11, 1996, the night Steve Wariner became a member of the Grand Ole Opry: 1st show6:30: GHS StringsGrandpa Jones (host); Bald-Headed End of the BroomJeanne Pruett: Satin SheetsGrandpa Jones: Kitty Klyde6:45: Joggin' In A JugMike Snider (host): Short Little Lulu/Clinch Mountain Backstep/Mississippi SawyerBill Carlisle: Is Zat You MyrtleMike Snider: Battle Cry of Freedom/Get You Hand Off My Knee and Load the Cannon7:00: Shoney'sPorter Wagoner (host): Ol' SlewfootJean Shepard: Bouquet of RosesBilly Walker: Jesus Walks InSkeeter Davis: The End of the WorldRay Pillow: Darling, Take Pity On MePorter Wagoner: A Satisfied Mind/Big Wind7:30: Standard CandyBill Anderson (host): But You Know I Love YouChet Atkins: InstrumentalChet Atkins & Steve Wariner: Have I Told You Lately That I Love YouSteve Wariner: Why Goodbye/Heart Trouble/Midnight Fire/What I Didn't Do/Lonely Women Make Good LoversBill Anderson & Steve Wariner: The Tips of My Fingers8:00: Martha WhiteJimmy Dickens (host): May the Bird of Paradise Fly Up Your NoseSweethearts Of The Rodeo: One More Night/Since I Found YouRiders In The Sky: Lonely RiverOpry Square Dance Band/Opry Square Dancers: Durang's HornpipeJimmy Dickens: A Death in the Family8:30: KraftJim Ed Brown (host): FoolsJeannie Seely: Here Comes My BabyDel Reeves: Wild BloodThe Whites: Pins & Needles/Swing Down ChariotJim Ed Brown: The Old Lamplighter/Looking Back to See2nd show9:30: Dollar GeneralPorter Wagoner (host): Y'All ComeJeanne Pruett: Temporarily YoursOswald: What A Friend We Have In JesusSteve Wariner: (?)/ A Woman Loves?(?)10:00: Massy FergusonGrandpa Jones (host): That New VitamineJan Howard: Take Me As I Am, Or Let Me GoGrandpa Jones: My Little Old Home Down in New Orleans10:15: Bio Red Foot BathJimmy Dickens (host): Take An Old Cold TaterSweethearts Of The Rodeo: Mule Skinner BluesJimmy Dickens: We Could10:30: Purnell's SausageMike Snider (host): (?)Charlie Walker: Don't Squeeze My SharmonMike Snider: The Fur Coat10:45: FairfieldBill Anderson (host): Wild WeekendOpry Square Dance Band/Opry Square Dancers: Acorn HillBill Anderson: The Corner of My Life11:00: Coca-ColaJeannie Seely (host): Speaking of the DevilJim Ed Brown: The Family BibleBilly Walker: When A Man Loves A Woman/Smokey PlacesRiders In The Sky: Miss Molly/Always Drink Upstream From the HerdJeannie Seely: Here Comes My Baby11:30: LorealJohnny Russell (host): Good Hearted WomanStu Phillips: Heart Over MindJean Shepard: Farewell PartyThe Whites: San Antonio Rose/Keep on the Sunny SideJohnny Russell: Act NaturallyEnjoy the Opry this weekend. I will be on vacation the rest of this week but if there is any breaking news or comments, I will report in if possible.

Thursday, May 1, 2014

The Grand Ole Opry has posted the line-ups for the 2 shows this weekend. The "star" attraction looks like the group, Little Big Town. They are scheduled to close out the show on both nights. Joining them in that final segment, and hosting, will be Vince Gill. As far as who will be joining them on the Friday Night Opry, guest artists include Mandy Barnett, Joe Mullins & His Radio Ramblers, Andy Griggs and Rhett Walker Band, who are described as a "Southern rock and Christian rock band." Once again, as I said last week, just what the Opry needs. I would have to double check, but I think it is their first Opry appearance. Saturday Night's Grand Ole Opry will feature guest artists Kree Harrison, The Willis Clan and Chuck Wicks, all of whom frequent the Opry stage. Also making a guest appearance will be James House, who has been around a long time and is seeing a career revival taking place. And yes, he is actually described as a "country singer."Friday May 27:00: Riders In The Sky (host); Andy Griggs; Jimmy C Newman; Jean Shepard7:30: Connie Smith (host); Joe Mullins & The Radio Ramblers; Rhett Walker BandIntermission8:15: Bill Anderson (host); Jesse McReynolds; Mandy Barnett8:45: Vince Gill (host); Little Big TownSaturday May 37:00: Riders In The Sky (host); Chuck Wicks; Jim Ed Brown7:30: Connie Smith (host); Kree Harrison; The Willis ClanIntermission8:15: Bill Anderson (host); George Hamilton IV; James House; Opry Square Dancers8:45: Vince Gill (host); Little Big TownThe Ernest Tubb Midnight Jamboree will be hosted by Glenn Doublas Tubb and they will be celebrating the 67th anniversary of the Midnight Jamboree. That should be a great night of celebration. Looking back at past Grand Ole Opry line-ups, here is the line-up from 5 years ago, the weekend of May 1 & May 2, 2009:Friday May 17:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Jimmy C Newman; Heidi Hewfield7:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); The Whites; Del McCoury Band8:00: Mike Snider (host); Jean Shepard; Lee Greenwood8:30: Marty Stuart (host); Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Connie SmithSaturday May 27:00: Jimmy Dickens (host); The Whites; Mandy Barnett7:30: Marty Stuart (host); George Hamilton IV; Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Connie Smith8:00: Jim Ed Brown (host); Jean Shepard; Trace Adkins; Opry Square Dancers8:30: Mike Snider (host); Jimmy C Newman; Martina McBrideHere is the Opry line-up from 10 years ago, the weekend of April 30 & May 1, 2004:Friday April 307:30: Porter Wagoner (host); Connie Smith; Mandy Barnett8:00: John Conlee (host); Charlie Walker; Jean Shepard; Sherri Austin8:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jan Howard; Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Dan Seals9:00: Bill Anderson (host); Katrina Elam; Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver9:30: Mike Snider (host); Hank Locklin; Jimmy C Newman; BR549Saturday May11st show6:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Connie Smith; Dan Seals7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Billy Walker; Osborne Brothers; Mandy Barnett7:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); Charlie Louvin; Jean Shepard; Rebecca Lynn Howard8:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Trent Willmon; Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver; Opry Square Dancers8:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Jack Greene; Sierra Hull; Alison Krauss2nd show9:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Connie Smith; Dan Seals10:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Stu Phillips; Billy Walker; Sierra Hull; Alison Krauss10:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Trent Willmon; Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver; Opry Square Dancers11:00: Jim Ed Brown (host); Jean Shepard; Osborne Brothers; Mandy Barnett11:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Jack Greene; Rebecca Lynn HowardFinally, it was on May 1, 1993 that Charley Pride became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Charley had first appeared on the Opry on January 7, 1967 and had made numerous Opry appearances over the years. He had been asked several times to become an Opry member but always felt that the time wasn't right as he was doing a lot of touring and living in the Dallas area. But in 1993, with his touring settling down he felt the time was right. Charley wrote about the Grand Ole Opry and joining the cast in his autobiography "Pride", that was published in 1994. Regarding the night he became a member, he wrote, "'It's about time,' someone said to me, as though the Opry membership had been closed to me before this May evening in 1993. In truth, I've had a standing invitation to join the club since the mid-1960s and had not accepted purely out of financial and scheduling considerations. Members must commit to a certain number of appearances each year. The Opry is rich in tradition and prestige, but spare in stipend. When I was first invited to join, the commitment was to play more than twenty Saturdays a year and the pay was eight dollars a song. Now the time was right. Although I still maintained a full work schedule eight or nine months out of the year, the itinerary was such that the commitment to the Opry family created no hardship. Rather it was an opportunity to snuggle closer to the roots of country music."On the night he was inducted, Charley appeared on the pre-show with Porter Wagoner that was televised by TNN. On the Opry itself, he was introduced by Jimmy C Newman. He sang "Kiss an Angel Good Morning" and dedicated the second song, "On the Wings of a Dove" to Roy Acuff, who had passed away in November. He then read a letter that was sent to him from Henry Cannon, Minnie Pearl's husband. Due to her stroke, Minnie could not attend but the letter read, "Minnie and I are so happy and proud of you. We've always loved you. What would I give if Roy and Minnie could be there to welcome you."As he was reading the letter, he broke down in tears. After completing the letter, he did "Kawliga." When he came off stage, he was greeted by Porter Wagoner and Stonewall Jackson. What was interesting is that early in his career, Stonewall and Charley did a show together in Shreveport and Stonewall would not let his band back up Charley. That night at the Opry, Charley wrote that Stonewall took off his guitar that was around his neck and gave him a hug. Here is the running order from May 1, 1993, the night Charley Pride became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. 1st show6:30: GHS Strings4 Guys (host): If It's From the Country, It's Coming from the HeartWilma Lee Cooper: Sweeter Than the Flowers4 Guys: (?)6:45: Country Music Hall of FameGrandpa Jones (host): Don't 'Cha Cry, MelindaJim Ed Brown: Lying in Love With You/The 3 BellsGrandpa Jones: 4 Stoned Walls & A Ceiling7:00: Shoney'sDel Reeves (host): Lay A Little Lovin' On MeCharlie Louvin: Will You Visit Me On SundaysJean Shepard: Many Happy Hangovers to YouOsborne Brothers: Rock of AgesEddie Raven: Wjo Do You Know in California/Bayou Boys' Sleep All Day; Run All NightDel Reeves: The Race is On7:30: Standard CandyJimmy C Newman (host): Cajun's DreamJan Howard: Crazy ArmsRiders In The Sky: Lonely Yukon StarsCharley Pride: Kiss An Angel Good Morning/Wings of A Dove/Kaw-LigaJimmy C Newman: Jambalaya8:00: Martha WhitePorter Wagoner (host): Ol' SlewfootCharlie Walker: Who Will Buy the WineOswald: Columbus Stockade BluesPorter Wagoner: Happy BirthdayCharlie Cushman: Sally GoodinOpry Square Dance Band/Melvin Sloan Dancers: Bill CheathamPorter Wagoner: Green, Green Grass of Home8:30: KraftHank Snow (host): Breakfast With the BluesBilly Walker: A Million and OneRoy Drusky: MississippiRay Pillow: Invitation to the BluesConnie Smith: I've Got My Baby On My MindHank Snow: I'm Not At All Sorry For You2nd show9:30: Dollar GeneralPorter Wagoner (host): DooleyDel Reeves: There She GoesStonewall Jackson: Side Steppin the BluesCharley Pride: Every Heart Should Have One/Mountain of Love/Kiss An Angel Good Morning/Kaw-LigaPorter Wagoner: On A Highway Headed South10:00: Little DebbieGrandpa Jones (host): Banjo Sam4 Guys: My Special AngelJean Shepard: Wabash CannonballGrandpa Jones: Old Camp Meeting Time10:15: Sunbeam/Tennessee PrideJim Ed Brown (host): Everyday PeopleBill Carlisle: Rusty Old HaloJim Ed Brown: Will the Circle Be Unbroken/I Saw the Light/I'll Fly Away/Gone At Last10:30: PicadillyBilly Walker (host): Charlie's ShoesLost & Found: Left Over BiscuitsBilly Walker: You Gave Me A Mountain10:45: Opry BookOsborne Brothers (host): Midnight FlyerCharlie Louvin: See the Big Man CryOpry Square Dance Band/Melvin Sloan Dancers: LibertyDavid Crowe: Sally Goodin11:00: Coca-ColaHank Snow (host): Rambling RoseRiders In The Sky: Son of the Western SoilJustin Tubb: You Nearly Lose Your MindEddy Raven: Sometimes A Lady/I've Got MexicoHank Snow: Old Shep11:30: General JacksonJimmy C Newman (host): Pistol Packin' MamaConnie Smith: Then And Only ThenRoy Drusky: All For the Love Of A GirlMike Snider: Squirrel HideJimmy C Newman: ColindaCongratulations again to Charley Pride on 21 years of Opry membership, and as always, enjoy the Opry this weekend!!!!

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About Me

I am a nationally recognized independent historian of the Grand Ole Opry. In addition to being the publisher and writer of Fayfare's Opry Blog, I have also researched Opry information for numerous authors and interested Opry fans. A resident of Canton, Ohio, I have attended hundreds of Grand Ole Opry shows since my first visit to Nashville in 1973. I can be contacted via email at bfay54@gmail.com